Norman Frederick Commo

After a period of declining health, Rick Commo died in Yakima, WA, on January 22, 2024, his 79th birthday. He was born in Augusta, GA, to Norman F. Commo, Sr. and Mabel (Moore) Commo. Family roots were in Massachusetts and he lived there for much of his life. In 1968 he married Ellen M. Watkins who died in 1984. He then married Dianne (Bateman) Huie in 1985. He graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in electrical engineering. He was employed by companies in the computer hardware and software sector, most notably Digital Equipment Corporation and EMC. He retired in 2014.

Rick's job brought him to Redmond, WA, in 1997. In 2021 he moved to Yakima to enjoy family. Retirement allowed him to continue with his many long-standing hobbies and interests. Ham radio, a big part of his life for years, enabled him to make many contacts and friends. Rick was never bored. His interests included astronomy, 3D printing, computer design and software, home brewing, radio controlled airplanes, woodworking, photography and choral singing. He sang with Cascadian Chorale, Kirkland Choral Society, Yakima Symphony Chorus and church choirs. He was an active member of St. Timothy's Episcopal Church in Yakima. He has been an enthusiastic, interesting, generous, humorous and caring part of many lives. He will be greatly missed.

Rick was predeceased by his parents, Norman F Commo, Sr. and Mabel Commo, and his first wife, Ellen M. (Watkins) Commo.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Dianne Commo, and four children: Kristin Gilbert (Jonathan) of Arlington, MA; Karen DeVaney (Jonathan) of Yakima, WA; Rebekah Carter of Ashland, MA; and Timothy Commo of Baltimore, MD; and five grandchildren: Todd Carter (Victoria) of Bellingham, MA; Joshua Carter of Ashland, MA; Owen DeVaney of Lacey, WA; Miles DeVaney of Salem, OR; and Conifer Gilbert of Arlington, MA. He is also survived by his sister, Desha Melton (Linda) of Austin, TX.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 2:00 PM at St. Timothy's Episcopal Church, 4105 Richey Road, Yakima, WA. If desired, donations may be made to Hopelink at hopelink.org or Hopelink, PO Box 3577, Redmond, WA, 98052.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.keithandkeith.com for the Commo family.